Gear up for Rotary

On Monday, June 25, outgoing president of the Rotary Club of Richmond, Alistair Ferguson, handed over the chains to incoming president Kevin Gear.
Kevin’s been an active member for 10 years and says he was initially inspired to become a Rotarian to “give back”.
“Having owned two successful business in the Nelson region which were extremely well supported by the local community, it was my way to give something back. It is very satisfying to get involved in the community at a different level, as part of a worldwide organisation that can truly make a difference at a local level,” says Kevin.
There are more than 33,000 Rotary clubs worldwide and, with a membership base of more than 1.2 million, they combine to provide humanitarian services and advance goodwill and peace around the world.
The Richmond club has weekly meetings at Club Waimea on Mondays at 5.30pm, and Kevin says he’s keen to see an increase in members, especially younger members.
“The strong focus of the club is to be involved in the community where we’re needed, and I intend to further enhance that.”
Kevin says he encourages the community to knock on their door and talk about what needs they may have.
Their main community-based project is the Nelson wine and food festival that has resulted in over $400,000 going back into the community over 10 years, through organisations such as the rescue chopper, coast guard and hospice.
Anybody interested in joining the active club can contact Kevin direct on 027 224 2599 for a chat.